South Korea: The National Security Law: Curtailing freedom of expression and association in the name of security in the Republic of Korea

This briefing highlights a worrying trend of increased arbitrary use of the National Security Law (NSL) in the Republic of Korea (South Korea) by law enforcement authorities that have undermined citizens’ enjoyment of the right to freedom of expression and association. The authorities are also using NSL provisions as a tool to control online debate in South Korea on North Korea. The increased use of the vaguely worded clauses of the NSL has arbitrarily targeted individuals and groups perceived to oppose the South Korean government.